Canine Urinary Tract InfectionCauses, Symptoms and Treatment

Canine urinary tract infection (UTI) and dog bladder infection
(cystitis) are very common disorders in dogs.

In some situations, urinary tract infections in dogs may not cause any
symptoms and
may resolve on their own without any
medical intervention. However, in other situations, a canine urinary
tract
infection can
lead to life-threatening illnesses if not
treated immediately
and properly.

Infection in the urinary tract causes inflammation which reduces the
size of the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the
body), making urination more difficult.

At a single site causing inflammation in the
kidneys, ureters, bladder,
urethra or the prostate gland,

At multiple
sites, or

In the urine.

Upper canine UTIs include
the kidney and ureter, and lower UTIs include the urethra
and the bladder. In many cases urinary tract infections can spread to the lining of
the bladder resulting in bladder infections in dogs.

Although dog UTIs can occur in both sexes, female dogs
are far more susceptible to canine urinary tract infections due
to their
shorter and wider urethra. Having
a shorter urethra means they are more likely to
accumulate bacteria
and other microorganisms in their system, thus increasing
the risk of
infection.

Symptoms of Canine Urinary Tract Infections

Sudden incontinence such as dribbling on the
floor and urinating in inappropriate places

Increased volume of urination

Straining, difficulty and/or pain when
urinating

Excessive thirst

Blood or pus in the urine

Foul smelling urine

Fatigue and lethargy

Fever

Lower back pain.

Important

The
symptoms of dog bladder infection and UTI are also associated
with other serious dog urinary illnesses, including canine
bladder
stones which can be life-threatening
if not treated as a medical emergency!

Don't delay!
Take your dog to a veterinarian for a
correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Urinary Tract
Infections in Dogs

If
your dog is showing symptoms of canine urinary tract
infection, your vet will test a
urine sample for a variety of factors including blood cell
counts, urine concentration, and bacteria or other foreign
organisms
present in your dog's urine.

We suggest you arrive at your veterinary appointment prepared, and try
to capture a sample of your dog's
urine to take with you.

If the urine tests positive for bacteria, typical treatment
is a course of antibiotics to eliminate the
UTI. Homeopathic bladder infection treatment may be an option
offered by holistic veterinarians.

At the end of the antibiotic treatment, your
vet should repeat cultures periodically to ensure your dog's urinary tract infection has cleared
up completely.

Suspect a UTI in your pooch?

If you
would value a second
opinion about your dog's UTI diagnosis and
treatment, we highly recommend you consider the
following very reputable on-line service.